~ Bloomington, Indiana - The City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) has announced that they have contracted with Indiana-based Milestone Contractors LP to begin work on the Clear Creek Culvert Reconstruction project on February 5, 2024. This project aims to improve stormwater drainage and utility infrastructure in the downtown Bloomington area from Dunn Street to Indiana Avenue.

The project will involve updating the circa-1900 tunnel to current standards and preparing the municipal separate storm sewer system for future years. This is the final section of the culvert system under downtown Bloomington that will be addressed, with the first project taking place in 1999. Pre-project utility relocations for electric and telecom have already been completed.

According to Milestone Superintendent Thomas Gott, "We are excited to launch the next phase of this important community project to help improve Bloomington's underground infrastructure. Our strong partnership with CBU and many community members is crucial to ensure we get the job done safely and efficiently."

During construction, there will be traffic and parking limitations in place until spring. Additionally, Indiana Avenue will be closed for approximately 10 weeks but is expected to reopen by early August 2024 before Indiana University students return for the fall semester. The full completion of the project, including plantings, is scheduled for October.

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Milestone Contractors LP will be replacing the existing tunnel with a new 22'x5' concrete tunnel while working around the flowing underground creek and existing buildings. The original limestone from the tunnel will also be reused as part of the creek restoration process. The company is working closely with all directly affected individuals and businesses, including Indiana University, to minimize any potential impacts of such a major project.

CBU Communications Manager Holly McLauchlin stated that "Maintaining the infrastructure that supports Bloomington is more important than ever in a changing climate." She also expressed confidence in Milestone Contractors LP as a partner based on their successful completion of the 2021-23 portion of the project and their focus on communication and safety.

In 2023, the Milestone team successfully reconstructed over 1,829 feet of culverts and sanitary sewers from Kirkwood to 1st Street. This section was some of the oldest infrastructure in the city, dating back to 1900. Each reconstructed section is essential in preventing potential structural failures and improving the flow of stormwater downtown.

With this new project set to begin in February 2024, Bloomington residents can look forward to improved stormwater drainage and utility infrastructure in their downtown area. The City of Bloomington Utilities and Milestone Contractors LP are committed to working together to ensure a safe and timely completion of this important community project.

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